Morgan (17) also died on the 43rd anniversary of the murder of his great uncle Patrick Barnard, who was just 13 when he was one of four people killed in the UVF bombing of the Hillcrest Bar in Dungannon on St Patrick’s Day 1976.

In an emotional interview, Mr Bradley told how he and Morgan's mother Maria, who is 17 weeks pregnant, were struggling to come to terms with the tragedy.

“She has chosen not to believe it at the moment,” he said.

The 43-year-old described how he and his son, from Springdale in Dungannon, had at one point discussed giving the Greenvale a miss on the night he died.

In a statement published on Tuesday, the school said it was trying to come to terms with the loss of two "much loved and popular pupils".

"Morgan was an ambitious, charismatic young person with an abundance of potential studying Maths, Digital Technology, Business Studies and his absolute passion, Irish," it said.

"He lifted the mood everywhere he went, everyone benefited from Morgan’s energetic, positive zest for life. It was contagious. His smile was bright and when Morgan was around, fun and laughter always followed.

"Connor was a kind-hearted, loyal friend. Always willing to help others, courteous, mannerly and compassionate. He had a great sense of team spirit and his warm, caring nature endeared him to all and earned him much deserved respect.

"Our school community will miss them both deeply. Our lives have been enriched by knowing them and they will always have a place in our hearts.

"Our prayer service yesterday afternoon and the time afterwards was very important for those who were close to Connor and Morgan and those who were witness to the events of Sunday night.

"Time and facilities are available for pupils and staff today from 1.00pm. It is best for pupils to come in and talk together, share their experiences and seek guidance and support as they need it. We have our school counsellor available throughout the day and the Critical Incident Team will also be available for pupils over the coming days.

"We remember also Lauren and our friends in St. Patrick’s College as they too process their grief and devastation.

"This is a terrible tragedy for the families and friends of Morgan, Connor and Lauren and we keep them in our thoughts and prayers at this time and in the difficult time ahead."